Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has denied reports of a disciplinary issue with Lamine Yamal, saying that claims he wanted to drop the teenager from the starting XI are false. It had been reported that the German wanted to punish the winger ahead of the Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain, but sporting director Deco intervened.
Flick vs Yamal?
According to a report from , Flick intended to punish the 18-year-old for a lack of punctuality by dropping him from the starting line-up, a decision that was ultimately overruled following Deco’s mediation.
The alleged flashpoint occurred when Yamal arrived late for a team meeting prior to the crucial European fixture. Flick, a coach known for his strict adherence to discipline, reportedly informed the winger that he would not be starting the match as a consequence. This approach is consistent with Flick's management style, having previously sidelined players such as Jules Kounde, Raphinha, and Inaki Pena for similar infractions.
AdvertisementAFPBarca boss addresses rumours of feud with teen star
Flick was asked about the reports at a press conference on Friday and quickly denied any such incident took place, insisting Yamal had no such punctuality issues.
“I'd like to know where this comes from; this is garbage," he said. "I'm especially grateful that this club, and Deco in particular, believes in our work. They would never ask us to do this. It's not true; I have nothing to hide. It's garbage, and if anyone says it, they're lying."
Asked if he has concerns about Yamal's private life, he said: "For me, what counts is that when he's here, he puts in the effort and commitment. And that's what he does. He had a few days off after working hard, and I don't interfere in his private life."
Barcelona's wider concerns over Yamal's off-field focus
The report that Flick denies is not the first to suggest a growing unease at Barcelona regarding Yamal's conduct. While acknowledging the player is often the first to arrive at the training ground, there is a belief that his behaviour in recent months has been a cause for concern.
One source was quoted as saying: “There is some concern about Lamine’s day-to-day life. It’s not alarming, but we don’t like some of the things that have been happening with the player in recent months. We don’t like the way he’s been living and the life he’s been leading.” The club's hierarchy is now said to be monitoring the situation closely, hoping the young star does not deviate from the path to success that has been laid out for him. The lack of punishment for Yamal, when contrasted with the sanctions handed to his teammates, has also reportedly caused some friction within the squad.
Reports of rift denied amid claims of 'political motives'
Before he addressed the speculation publicly, reported that sources close to both Flick and Yamal had strongly denied any serious conflict. While Yamal's tardiness is not disputed, these insiders insist the situation was blown out of proportion.
Furthermore, the counter-report claims that Flick's position was never in jeopardy and that his authority remains intact, with one source quoted as insisting the German would have resigned had he been overruled by Deco. There is a growing suspicion within the club that such rumours are being spread with ulterior motives, possibly for "political or electoral purposes" aimed at destabilising the current board and management.